But not for the first time in his career, the 24-year-old showed real strength of character.

It was the same mental fortitude which has helped him deal with light-hearted, even affectionate, ribbing of his fielding and batting abilities.

There is no shortage of skill either - anyone who can count Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid, Inzamam-ul-Haq and Mohammad Yousuf among his victims has to be blessed in some way.

And following a brave piece of captaincy from Andrew Flintoff, Panesar had his revenge over Symonds before deceiving Adam Gilchrist.

Shane Warne perished after tea and Brett Lee was lbw to a beautiful delivery to make it five wickets and five vigorous celebrations.

Not bad for your Ashes debut.

The knowledgeable home members, previously suspicious of the patka-sporting cult hero, were suddenly forced to sit up and recognise what the fuss had been about.

Indeed, having competed and more than held his own against subcontinental spin experts India, Sri Lanka and Pakistan, Panesar had now demonstrated his ability to mix it with the best side in the world.

Giles, meanwhile, was seen smiling on the balcony, genuinely delighted at Panesar's success.

With all due respect to the King of Spain, it is a role he might have to get used to playing.